WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderGoing Green: EarthMatters Program

Going Green: EarthMatters Program

By Justin Gehrts

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Of the many services Womanspace provides for the community, one in particular caters to the green crowd. It's called the EarthMatters program.

At Womanspace, they believe in connecting with and preserving the environment. They maintain woods and a prairie and host a green program every month. Everyone is welcome to these Earthmatters sessions. "It's open to the public. You don't have to have regular attendance to come. You can come to whatever program, whichever month suits your fancy," said Womanspace Program Coordinator Gale Ketteler.

Those attending get tips on everything from decluttering your home and recycling valentines to Earthworm farming. "In EarthMatters, we discuss a lot of different projects and ideas to be more environmental," said Ketteler.

Money for the program uses the green theme as well. Womanspace sells green tote bags, much like the ones you see in some grocery stores. "The bag feels exactly like canvas but it's actually made of 100 percent recycled water bottles, post-consumer waste," said Hoople.

Program leader Sue Hoople believes individuals who take small steps can make a world of difference. "Keep it as simple as possible and as hopeful as possible, not dwelling on the bad stuff. We've got to be informed, but not dwelling on it and then move from there. What can we personally do?"

Hoople answers that question on the second Wednesday of every month at noon at the Womanspace campus, 3333 Maria Linden Drive.